Signs, Signs, Everywhere - Uncontrolled signs can quickly destroy a sense of place and damage community appearance. The City of Spokane Valley is now considering new signage regulations that would significantly increase the size and number of signs allowed in the community. These regulations, developed by a committee composed largely of sign industry representatives, could have long-term negative impacts for the new city.

Signage is important in identifying businesses and establishing the character of commercial areas. However, excess signage leads to cluttered, undesirable views and devalues the economic potential of an area. The proposed ordinance would allow more signs and larger signs. Grandfather rights are expanded, and roof signs, which are currently prohibited, would be allowed. A comprehensive sign plan provision also allows the planning director to waive sign regulations for certain areas. These are significant changes and deserve a much broader community discussion than has taken place to date.

The City of Spokane Valley is currently developing its Comprehensive Plan. This effort should be the foundation for developing a long-term perspective on the community's look and feel. Does this future contain a glut of large, closely, spaced signs; or smaller, visually pleasing signs? The decision should be made by the community through its comprehensive planning effort.

The City of the Spokane Valley should delay action on new signage regulations and seek broader public input on this important topic. Any new regulations for the City of the Valley should be developed in concert with the Valley's Comprehensive Plan effort and should reflect the desires of the community.